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Yesterday, Anthony (who did not want his last name revealed) received a call saying his 18-year-old daughter Michelle had been the victim of sexual assault.

"I got a phone call from Michelle's mum when I was at work and obviously it's distressing when you're not close at hand," he said.

Michelle was tanning on Bucasia Beach, listening to music on her iPod, when a man suddenly appeared next to her and attempted to grab her inappropriately.

Following a brief struggle, Michelle was able to free herself and contacted police.

Anthony said the situation was made worse for him because directly following the assault, Michelle wasn't answering her phone. "The first thing you want to know is she ok," he said. "Her mum had tried to ring her back (but) couldn't get in contact with her.

"Knowing she had been attacked... I thought (the attacker) could have followed her home."

The incident happened about 9.45am.

Police dogs were used in the search for the man, who was described as being indigenous, about 175cm tall with brown eyes and a slim build. He was last seen heading south along Bucasia Beach.

Michelle said she would not be going to the beach by herself anymore. "I think I'll have to go with a group of people," she said.

"My heart was racing, I didn't know what to think. I was just shocked."

Mackay Police have asked for anyone with information relating to the attempted assault to contact Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000.